Ukraine's Military Denies Encirclement of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad Amid Russian Claims
Ukraine's Air Assault Forces have refuted claims that the cities of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad are encircled by Russian forces. On December 5, Commander Yevhen Lasiichuk of the 7th Corps stated that Ukrainian defense units are actively expanding logistics routes and maintaining control over key positions in the area. The line of contact in Pokrovsk runs along the railway, with Ukrainian troops retaining control over the northern part of the city. Despite Russian attempts to advance, Ukrainian units in central Pokrovsk are holding their ground. The situation is more challenging in the southern part, where Russian forces are attempting to bypass urban fighting. Logistical access to Myrnohrad has become more difficult, but movement into the city continues. The fortress city of Pokrovsk has been a focal point of conflict, with Ukrainian troops resisting a major Russian assault for a year. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently claimed the capture of the city, highlighting its political significance. 
